November 6, 2009 – Our Town – OWU

“Tune In”
A new beginning for Ohio Wesleyan’s student-run radio station, 98.7 FM WSLN

Image courtesy of Andrew Coder ’10

“There are around 30 students directly involved, and many shows have active followings on and off campus,” explains Andrew Coder ’10. Coder is currently Station Manager at WSLN, but his duties go beyond that title. On a day-to-day basis, Coder also is busy as technical director, amending computer troubles, and making sure all staff members are familiar and comfortable with the studio equipment.

Coder first got involved with WSLN in 2006 as the host of the show “Rampant Audio Romance,” and says that the station was very active, but each time the station manager position changed hands, it was difficult for those of less experience to keep the station running. Coder plans to make this start of the year the last “new beginning” of WSLN.

“This past spring, we had to start from scratch, and work our way back to having things in the state they are in now,” he explains. “To better prepare for the future, I’m working on a reference document for future stage managers that should take some of the guesswork out of getting things going in the fall.”

Several internal improvement projects are being implemented this fall. WSLN, located on the third floor of Slocum Hall, has gained some space, and now includes a meeting room, and an area in the process of being set up, in which live recordings and interviews can be conducted. A new Web site has also been created, with a live stream and show schedule.

The project Coder is most excited about is the addition of a new computer for the broadcast studio. This computer will replace the station’s old automated playlist machine.

“[It will let us] have much less repetitious programming during school breaks and between live shows,” explains Coder. “It’ll also be easy for students to archive their programming for inclusion in automated programming and other purposes.”

WSLN staff members also have other plans in mind to get the word out about the station. “Of course, we are always looking to improve the visibility of WSLN,” Coder states. The group plans to get together as many local bands as possible to participate in a publicity campaign for the station, some time in January. Coder hopes this event will be a precursor to improving community relations. And, as Coder puts it, “In the spirit of public radio, it will be free and open to the public.”

Students interested in being involved with WSLN are welcome to the open meetings every Sunday at 3 p.m. at the WSLN studio. Opportunities exist for those who want to help with planning outside events and projects as well as projects around the station, or for those who would like to have their own show. The current schedule, along with a live stream of the radio station, can be found online at wsln.owu.edu. You can also tune in to 98.7 FM to listen. Any questions and comments can be directed through e-mail to wsln_987@owu.edu.

“The staff we have at the now, along with the positive response our programming has received from students, staff, faculty, and our fellow Delaware residents is as positive and lively as I’ve ever seen,” says Coder.

– Christina Fesz ’12